يَدْعُوا۟ لَمَن ضَرُّهُۥٓ أَقْرَبُ مِن نَّفْعِهِۦ ۚ لَبِئْسَ ٱلْمَوْلَىٰ وَلَبِئْسَ ٱلْعَشِيرُ 13
Translations
He invokes one whose harm is closer than his benefit - how wretched the protector and how wretched the associate.
Transliteration
Yad'oo liman darruhoo aqrabu min naf'ihi. Labis'al-mawla wa labis'al-'ashir.
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah criticizes those who worship idols and false deities, emphasizing that these gods can neither benefit nor protect their worshippers—in fact, the harm from worshipping them is closer and more immediate than any benefit. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir note this verse condemns polytheism by highlighting the logical absurdity of invoking entities whose only effect is to lead one astray, making them terrible protectors and worse companions in belief.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Al-Hajj (22:13), which was revealed in Madinah and discusses various aspects of Islamic monotheism and the foolishness of idolatry. The broader context of these verses (22:12-14) contrasts the worship of false gods with the worship of Allah alone, addressing polytheists who called upon idols despite their inability to help.
Related Hadiths
Related to themes in this verse: Sahih Bukhari 4477 - The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafah,' emphasizing that worship should be directed only to Allah. Also relevant: Surah 22:12 which precedes this ayah, discussing those who call upon partners besides Allah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to reflect critically on their spiritual commitments and ensure they worship only Allah, who alone possesses power and authority. It serves as a reminder that turning to false gods or relying on anything besides Allah ultimately brings harm rather than benefit, and encourages discernment in matters of faith.